Similar Vehicles

Related Articles

Given that the 21st century has seen a sort of return to the roots aspect for the Mustang, it was probably only a matter of time before the Boss 302 made a return. Over the last few years there's been steady and growing interest in the concept of a new-age Trans Am Special.

Jim Clarke led the charge with the creation of the 5.0 HO V8 for the Mustang in 1982 and was responsible for the continuous improvement of the 5.0 throughout the '80s. What Jim and his team accomplished is truly amazing.

Advertisement

Classic Car Overview

We at Gateway Classic Cars of Tampa are excited to present to you this awesome 1979 Ford Mustang Pace Car. The Indianapolis 500 is one of the most famous races in the world. On May 27th 1979 the Ford Mustang set the pace for this intense race that would become a Rick Mears victory. This car is a special edition that celebrates the Ford Mustang Pace Car. The Ford Mustang was chosen as the Official Pace Car of the 1979 Indianapolis 500. Ford commemorated this event with a mid-year Indy 500 Pace Car version (10,478 produced). All were finished in two-tone pewter and black with orange and red graphics. The front end featured a unique front air dam with fog lights, and a full-length cowl type hood scoop, while the rear end got the new for 1979 rear spoiler (all of these additions carried over to both the 1980 and 1981 Cobra). The black interior featured Recaro seats with patterned black and white inserts. Available were the 2.3 L (140 cu in) four-cylinder Turbo with mandatory four-speed manual transmission or the 4.95 L (302 cu in) V8 with either an overdrive 4-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission. The production cars included a sunroof. However, the three actual pace cars were fitted with a T-top by Cars & Concepts of Brighton, MI. The removable panel roof option would not become an available option until the 1981 model year. This Mustang is fitted with a 5.0L 302 cubic inch V8 with a 4-speed manual transmission. The current owner is the 2nd owner and was brought from his best friend that drove it in high school and then stored it. It currently has only 85k miles on its numbers matching engine and transmission. Many upgrades have been done to keep this car running top notch. However, the original parts that were swapped out, still come with the car. The factory wheels were changed to a black Cobra wheels but originals are still included as well. Some of the upgrades include the clutch, bushings in the front end, Hotchkins control arms, A/C expansion block and dryer R-12, all of the interior has been redone, power brakes complete system, rack and steering, axels an bearings, and even the power steering pump has been changed. Other upgrades like the battery, radiator, water pump, coil, and original 2 Barrel Carburetor have all been redone or changed. This car comes with the original receipt files for all of the work that has been completed. Along with the Cobra wheels, the curb appeal of this car comes from it being lowered in the front and rear. Do not let this sharp Mustang pass you by! To see 100+ HD pictures and videos of this 1979 Ford Pace Car, please visit GatewayClassicCars.com. For more information or to schedule an appointment to view this vehicle in person, please call the Tampa showroom at (813)645-6200 or email us directly at Tampa@GatewayClassicCars.com.